BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Bluefield State University has been awarded $1,105,000 in Community Project Funding through the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education to support critical campus security upgrades. The funding was secured with the support of U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito and U.S. Senator Jim Justice.
The award will enhance campus safety infrastructure through upgrades to surveillance systems, improved building access controls, and strengthened emergency communication capabilities. These improvements will help ensure a secure learning and living environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
“I am proud to have helped deliver funding through the Congressionally Directed Spending process to support critical campus security upgrades at Bluefield State University,” Senator Capito said. “As the university continues to see strong enrollment growth, more first-time freshmen, and expanded on-campus housing, it is essential that its safety infrastructure keeps pace. Supporting higher education institutions like Bluefield State strengthens southern West Virginia and helps provide greater opportunity for the next generation.”
“We are deeply grateful to Senator Capito and Senator Justice for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of Bluefield State University,” said Dr. Darrin Martin, President of Bluefield State University. “The safety and well-being of our campus community are foundational to student success. This investment allows us to modernize our security systems in a responsible and forward-looking way.”
The funding comes as Bluefield State experiences significant institutional growth. According to data released by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, the University outpaced both state and national enrollment trends this fall. While public four-year institutions in West Virginia saw total enrollment increase 1.7% statewide and approximately 2% nationally, Bluefield State recorded a 7.8% increase in overall headcount, growing from 1,313 students in Fall 2024 to 1,416 students in Fall 2025.
Bluefield State recorded the second highest overall headcount growth rate among four-year institutions statewide and led all institutions in two key measures of enrollment strength. Full-time equivalent enrollment increased 9.5%, from 1,070 to 1,172 students, reflecting stronger academic engagement. Incoming first-time freshman enrollment rose by 37%, from 219 to 300 students, marking one of the strongest new student classes in recent University history.
With expanded enrollment, increased residential capacity, and greater campus activity, investing in modern safety infrastructure is an essential component of responsible growth. As a public, historically Black institution serving many first-generation and rural students, Bluefield State remains committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where students can focus on academic and professional achievement.
“These upgrades ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with our momentum,” Dr. Martin added. “We appreciate our federal delegation’s partnership in helping Bluefield State remain secure, prepared, and positioned for continued success.”
Implementation of the campus security upgrades will begin following final planning and procurement processes.
For more information about Bluefield State University, visit www.bluefieldstate.edu.
